What Is a Thin Film Transistor (TFT)?
A thin film transistor (TFT) utilizes a thin semiconductor layer to control electrical currents, representing a key advancement in transistor technology.
This technology is integral to modern display systems, including LCD and OLED screens, where TFTs enhance image quality by precisely controlling the voltage to individual pixels, thus reducing power consumption and allowing for more compact device designs. The operation of a TFT is based on modulating the current flow between the source and drain contacts by varying the voltage applied to the gate electrode.
Beyond displays, TFTs find applications in a broad range of electronic devices such as digital cameras, printers, and various types of sensors. Their construction involves layering a semiconductor on a glass substrate, alongside gate, source, and drain electrodes, which together facilitate efficient current control. Key advantages of TFT technology include its small footprint, energy efficiency, high-resolution display capabilities, and suitability for economical mass production.